The Early Church
New Testament Division—Third and Fourth Periods
The Pivotal Events of the Book of Acts.—Pentecost—the bestowal of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-47). The healing power given, as well as spiritual power (Acts 3:1-11; Acts 5:12-16). Persecution came to the disciples (Acts 4:1-22; Acts 5:18). The great persecution (Acts 6:1 to 7:60). The conversion of Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:1-22; Acts 22:1-21; Acts 26:1-20). The gospel given to the Gentiles (Acts 10:3 to 11:48). Missionary work organized (Acts 13:1-3). The Council at Jerusalem (Acts 15:1-31). The gospel crossed from Asia to Europe (Acts 16:9). The first preaching at Philippi (Acts 16:14, 15.) Lydia the first convert. (The life of Paul is treated more fully in the next lesson.)
TIME.—A. D. 30 to A. D. 51.
PLACES.—Jerusalem, Damascus, Caesarea, Tarsus and Cilicia, Troas, Philippi.
SIGNIFICANCE OF EVENTS.—Here the gospel ceases to be local in character and becomes universal—held no longer by national or geographical boundaries.